Reading Beauty Labels: What is Paraben?

I’ve been reading labels again. I’m always curious about what goes into the products I love, like lotion, fancy bubble bath, and other bath and beauty stuff. Part of that is because I like to try making home versions of expensive bath products… but the other part is that I like knowing what’s going in or on my body. Paraben is one ingredient I’ve heard concerns about — and in response, seen a lot of “paraben-free” items appear on the shelves. So what is paraben, anyway? The different types of paraben (including proplyparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben) are chemical compounds that … Continue reading

Is Your Beauty Routine Filled with Chemicals?

When thinking about living green, you may not think about stuff like cosmetics. I know I’ve never thought to check the label of my deodorant, toothpaste, soap, and makeup, but after reading about some of the things that are in there, I have decided to start reading closely. I read a statistic online that said that we could be exposing ourselves to 200 or more toxins when just getting ready for the day. What are some hidden toxins you want to avoid in your cosmetic routine? If you suffer from dandruff, you may want to read the label of your … Continue reading

Economical Beauty: Scrubs

I was at a party this weekend — one of those Tupperware type parties, where you get to check out an entire line of products and shop while you socialize. I tried out an “instant manicure” and quite frankly, loved it. It was an exfoliating scrub for hands, cuticles, and nails that left my skin feeling super-soft afterwards. So I asked the consultant if it was a sugar scrub — the exfoliating bits were finer than the salt crystals I’ve used in making body scrubs for years. She said yes, and then helpfully rattled off the list of ingredients. And … Continue reading